As an expert in ancient history and archaeology, I have a deep understanding of the significance of Jericho and its fortifications. The walls of Jericho are a fascinating subject of study, as they are among the earliest known examples of urban fortifications in the world. Let's delve into the details of these ancient structures. The city of Jericho, located in the West Bank near the Jordan River, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has a rich history that dates back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period. The walls that encircled the city were not just a testament to the architectural prowess of its inhabitants but also a strategic defense mechanism against potential threats. The walls of Jericho were constructed around 8000 BC, which places them at the very beginning of the Neolithic period. This era was marked by significant advancements in human society, including the development of agriculture, the establishment of permanent settlements, and the construction of monumental architecture. The walls were a remarkable feat of engineering for their time. They were at least 13 feet (4 meters) high, which would have been an imposing barrier to any potential attackers. The height of the walls was not the only defensive feature; they were also backed by a watchtower or redoubt that stood 28 feet (8.5 meters) tall. This watchtower would have provided an elevated vantage point for guards to monitor the surrounding area and alert the city's inhabitants of any approaching danger. The construction of these walls and the watchtower was a clear indication of the city's military concerns. The **first technology that can be ascribed unequivocally to purely military purposes**, as you mentioned, highlights the importance that the people of Jericho placed on defense. This was a time when the concept of a walled city was still in its infancy, and the walls of Jericho set a precedent for future urban planning and fortification strategies. The materials used to construct the walls were also significant. They were made from stone, which was a durable and readily available resource in the region. The choice of stone not only provided a strong and long-lasting barrier but also reflected the technological capabilities of the people at the time. The walls were built using a technique known as core-and-veneer construction, where a core of rubble was surrounded by a facing of larger, more regular stones. This method allowed for the creation of a solid and stable structure that could withstand the test of time. The walls of Jericho have been the subject of much debate and research over the years. Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of information about the city's layout, the materials used in construction, and the various phases of the walls' development. These findings have shed light on the city's strategic importance and the ingenuity of its early inhabitants. In conclusion, the walls of Jericho were a critical element of the city's defense system. Standing at a height of at least 13 feet (4 meters), with a watchtower rising to 28 feet (8.5 meters), they represented an early and sophisticated approach to urban fortification. The walls not only protected the city from external threats but also symbolized the technological and military advancements of the Neolithic period. read more >>

The stone walls of Jericho, which date from about 8000 bc, represent the first technology that can be ascribed unequivocally to purely military purposes. These walls, at least 13 feet (4 metres) in height and backed by a watchtower or redoubt some 28 feet tall, were clearly--read more >>